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Posted by ChrstnMchl on Nov-02-2009 13:44:

Audacity & USB

So I just got a new laptop and have Audacity downloaded so I can record a new mix. I've used Audacity in the past so I am somewhat familiar. Well, when I was testing it last night I think I may have an issue. The laptop only has a mic input and not line in. I was hoping that this wasn't going to be an issue, but it looks like the signal is running in way too hot. When I was looking at laptops I was concerned that this might happen. I was thinking I was going to have to get an external soundcard BUT I just remembered the XONE:42 already has a soundcard and a USB interface. When I read the Audacity USB stuff it only talks about USB turntables. I'm assuming that it should be the same for a USM mixer. Does anyone have any experience with this?

Posted by woscar on Nov-02-2009 15:05:

How are the levels on your mixer? Try keeping them lower and record something to see if that's the problem.

Posted by ChrstnMchl on Nov-02-2009 15:49:

quote:
Originally posted by woscar
How are the levels on your mixer? Try keeping them lower and record something to see if that's the problem.

The only way I can adjust the record out level is with the gain on each channel. I'm one of the rare DJs who actually understands the relationship between signal and volume so I feel I had the gains set right. I did try cutting back on the gains just to make sure there was some control there and it did reduce the level going into the laptop - but then it just sounded quiet and distorted. It is entirely possible that it was just the track though. I'll mess around with it more tonight.

Thanks for the input!

Posted by ChrstnMchl on Nov-04-2009 20:29:

The USB connection produced the same results. I can turn down the input on the laptop but in order for it to sound right I have to set it at 20% and that seems low to me. Now I think it is the mixer sending out a lot of signal (like you were saying). The 42 also has "Wet/Dry" knobs for send signal to an external effects box, but they also funtion as a sort of trim knob. The nuetral position is in the middle but when it is there the master level is lower than the individual channel level. The knob is post-fader and pre-master so I run it all the way dry and my levels match. If I keep it nuetral then the signal going to the laptop seems right.

So, I think I have a pretty good handle on what the issue is, I'm just not sure of the solution I want to use.

Posted by Forbes on Nov-05-2009 21:16:

Thats actually the same problem my mate has with audacity as every time he records with it his levels are really hot and clipped.

When i record i use the booth out connections to send the signal to my laptop so i can adjust the output via the booth volume knob.

Just a thought, check your soundcard as some have a boost function for the levels of the mircophone this could be your problem.